CBD vs. Hemp Skin Care Products What’s The Difference?
Now that CBD is legal in most parts of the world, and its topical application, more and more skincare products using CBD or hemp will continue to emerge in the market. However, understanding the difference between various terms could be pretty tricky.
Nevertheless, knowing the difference is essential for choosing the right kind of product. For example, when it comes to health benefits or benefits for skin care, CBD-containing products may differ quite a bit from hemp skin care products.
These two do share lots of similarities, and yet they are different. That is why there is so much confusion around it. Here we will explain all the possible similarities between the two and the differences. We will also discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each.
Aren’t CBD & Hemp Skin Care Products Essentially the Same Thing?
Theoretically, they might be the same, but that is rarely the case in practice. So first and foremost, it is essential to understand that all these are products of the Cannabis Sativa plant. Both CBD and hemp are extracts of the same plant but different parts.
Traditionally, all cannabis plants have been divided into two groups; hemp and marijuana. Hemp has been used to produce industrial products, fibers, and foods and is low in THC (less than 0.3%); therefore, it does not cause euphoria. Marijuana is just any cannabis plant species high in THC that causes euphoria, and people use it primarily for recreational purposes, though sometimes for medicinal reasons.
It means that all cosmetic products contain hemp extracts and not marijuana. This is because hemp is legal to grow in most nations, including the EU.
However, legally grown hemp also contains minute amounts of THC, along with 100s of cannabinoids. However, the concentration of cannabinoids varies in different parts of the plant. Thus, CBD extract is from the plant’s flowers, leaves, and stalk.
On the other hand, the word hemp means hemp seed oil in most cases. Hemp seed oil is naturally deficient in THC, and low in cannabinoids, but rich in other phytonutrients like omega-3 fatty acids and other antioxidants.
So, despite both the CBD and hemp seed oil coming from the same plant, they are the extracts of different parts of the plant, with different chemical compositions and health benefits. Thus, their role in skin care also differs.
There are hundreds of cultivars of the Cannabis Sativa plant. Generally, most countries maintain a list of low-THC plants that are legal to cultivate. For example, the EU Commission has its list of cannabis Sativa plants varieties, and one can grow these cannabis plants legally in the EU.
Hemp vs. CBD Skin Care: The Similarities
While CBD and hemp skincare products are quite different, they share several similarities. Hemp skincare products primarily feature hemp seed oil, which is rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, along with other antioxidants. However, hemp seed oil contains only trace amounts of CBD or other cannabinoids.
On the other hand, CBD skincare products often use carrier oils that may also include omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants. This means that both CBD and hemp skincare products are typically oil-based, offering similar benefits such as moisturizing the skin, reducing irritation, and enhancing skin barrier function.
Both products originate from the hemp plant or cannabis species known for high CBD content and extremely low THC levels. Legally cultivated hemp or cannabis plants are highly versatile, as nearly every part of the plant holds industrial or commercial value.
Hemp vs. CBD Skin Care: The Differences
Though both hemp (seed oil) and CBD are extracts from the same plant, they are extracts of different plant parts, thus making them quite different products.
CBD skin care products would be rich in cannabidiol, and they might or might not have other components. Manufacturers often produce it using either CBD isolate, which is 99% pure CBD. Or they might use CBD distillate, which contains other cannabinoids and is a broad spectrum.
On the other hand, hemp or hemp seed oil does not contain any CBD at all. Even if it contains CBD, it is present in traces. However, it does contain omega-3 fatty acids and other antioxidants. Additionally, it has all the benefits of plant oil for the skin.
It would be correct to say that these are very different products. But it would be wrong to call hemp seed oil a CBD skin care product. It is just a kind of plant oil extracted from cannabis plant seeds. Thus, those looking for the benefits of CBD must avoid hemp skin care products. However, hemp seed oil also has uses in skin care, something one should keep in mind.
List Some of the Key Differences
The key difference between CBD and hemp skin care products lies in their ingredients. CBD skin care products must include cannabidiol (CBD) as an active ingredient, though they may also contain other components. In contrast, products labeled as hemp typically use hemp seed oil, which is naturally free of both CBD and THC. While trace amounts of cannabinoids may occur due to cross-contamination, their significance is minimal and not well understood.
Hemp seed oil is rich in omega fatty acids and antioxidants, offering numerous benefits as a plant-based oil for skin care. However, products made with CBD isolate may not share these benefits, as the isolate lacks the broad nutrient profile of hemp seed oil. This distinction makes CBD and hemp cosmetics quite different, each with unique advantages for skin care.
There’s another notable difference between the two: the source of their ingredients. Female cannabis plants, which grow longer and produce larger buds, are primarily used for CBD extraction. In contrast, hemp seed oil and industrial hemp fibers typically come from male cannabis plants, which produce more seeds and fiber.
Legal considerations also differentiate the two. CBD cosmetics can face regulatory hurdles in some countries. Manufacturers must prove their products are not fit for consumption and contain either no THC or only trace amounts. On the other hand, hemp skin care products are far easier to market and sell, as hemp seed oil is legal in most parts of the world and requires minimal documentation. This simplicity makes hemp products more accessible and widely accepted in global markets.
Hemp vs. CBD Skin Care Products: Which Is Better for My Skin?
Both hemp and CBD skin care products are suitable for the skin. However, their benefits may differ. CBD health benefits for the skin are quite different compared to hemp skincare benefits.
CBD’s health benefits for the skin include its ability to reduce sebum production and exert potent anti-inflammatory action. Thus, CBD for the skin is good for preventing and managing acne. CBD cosmetics are also suitable for those living with anxiety and inflammation.
CBD cosmetics work by interacting with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which can stimulate regenerative processes in the skin. This interaction helps soothe skin irritation, support healing, and provide antioxidant protection. These properties make CBD skincare beneficial for specific conditions like acne and oily skin. Additionally, CBD absorbed through the skin may help reduce anxiety and promote a calming effect.
In contrast, hemp skincare products do not contain CBD or THC. Instead, they utilize cold-pressed hemp seed oil, which is highly nourishing for the skin. Hemp seed oil is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, supports skin barrier function, suppresses bacterial growth, and protects against environmental toxins. These qualities make hemp skincare particularly suitable for dry or sensitive skin.
Key Benefits of Each:
- CBD Skincare: Offers targeted benefits for acne, oily skin, and inflammation. Its interaction with the ECS can promote skin repair and relaxation.
- Hemp Skincare: Provides deep hydration and nourishment, making it ideal for dry skin. It also reduces inflammation and protects the skin from environmental damage.
Both CBD and hemp cosmetics are beneficial for skin conditions like atopic dermatitis and skin allergies. Both can reduce inflammation, soothe the skin, and suppress allergic reactions.
Conclusion: Hemp vs. CBD Skincare
While CBD and hemp skincare products share some origins, they offer distinct benefits. CBD skincare leverages the therapeutic effects of cannabinoids, while hemp focuses on the natural nourishment of plant-based oils. Choosing between the two depends on your specific skin care needs and preferences.
About us
At Essentia Pura, we specialize in manufacturing high-quality white-label and private-label CBD products, helping businesses launch their own unique CBD brands. With cutting-edge hemp extraction methods and a commitment to compliance and quality, we support companies in the nutraceutical, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries. Whether you’re looking for ready-to-market formulations or custom solutions, we’re here to help you succeed in the growing CBD market.
